• WE'VE all heard the saying "you never forget how to ride a bicycle". However if it's been a while since you last sat in the saddle, the idea of using pedal power to get around the Capital can be pretty daunting.
To help get you started Richmond Council and Transport for London (TfL) have developed a Cycle Starter Pack to support and encourage novice cyclists. The TfL funded packs are available from local cycle retailers, and the Civic Centre, and will be handed out at Smarter Travel roadshows at festivals and fetes in the borough throughout the summer. They are also available at Moore's Cycles, Prologue Bikes and Sigma Sport .
Each pack includes:
• A guide to getting started with advice on riding etiquette and safety, bike security, basic bike maintenance and hints and tips to increase confidence on the roads.
• A cycling map of the Richmond upon Thames area.
• Information and a discount voucher for cycle training in the borough.
• Discount vouchers for bikes and accessories at local cycle retailers, plus a voucher to claim a free handlebar bag worth £15.
Councillor David Trigg, Richmond Council's Cabinet Member for Traffic, Transport and Parking, said: "We're not trying to teach grannies to suck eggs. We're helping people, who genuinely want to get on a bike, but are a bit worried or can't remember the rules around riding on the roads.
"It's practical information which will make a difference, and what everyone should remember is that, after walking, cycling is the cheapest and often the quickest way of getting around London. Our aim is to double the number of cycle journeys made everyday in the borough ."
Through the Smarter Travel Richmond upon Thames project, Richmond Council and TfL aim to double the number of cycle journeys made every day in Richmond upon Thames. Additional cycle facilities and projects will also be provided such as new cycle parking spaces, two new cycle routes and cycle training sessions.
Smarter Travel Richmond is a £4.2m partnership with TfL to increase walking, cycling and public transport use in the borough over the next three years.
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